A Travel Price Comparison for Mexico Mexico City vs. Mazatlan for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Mexico City or Mazatlan?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Mexico City or Mazatlan? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Mexico City

Mexico City is a diverse, vibrant, and dynamic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Mexico City travel costs.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a authentic, historical, and cultural city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Mazatlan travel costs.

Mexico City and Mazatlan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mexico City or Mazatlan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mexico City than Mazatlan, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Mexico City is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Mazatlan is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights. Mexico City is popular for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture. It is also home to Zócalo. Mazatlan is popular for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas.

How is Mexico City different from Mazatlan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mazatlan and Mexico City. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mexico City or Mazatlan?

Mexico City is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Mexico City are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is filled with historic buildings, fascinating museums, and interesting landmarks. At the heart of the city is Zócalo, where the country's constitution was signed. Nearby you'll find the National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor. Other interesting museums in the city include the National Museum of Anthropology, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the National History Museum.

Many visitors head to Mazatlan specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

Is the Food Better in Mexico City or Mazatlan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mexico City is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Mexico City is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city food scene is as diverse as the population itself. There are countless ways to experience the amazing street food, but there are also world class chefs working in award winning restaurants. Make sure you try the chilaquiles, tacos al pastor, and chiles en nogada.

Mazatlan has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Stewed meats and shrimp are a big part of the cuisine here. Many recipes have a little bit of spice. The restaurants around town are authentic and local, making for a great dining experience.

Is Mexico City or Mazatlan Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Mexico City just to party. It's a huge city, so of course there's no shortage of diverse nightlife activities. Some of the most popular neighborhoods for nightlife include the downtown, La Condesa, and Colonia Juárez. For upscale clubs head to Polanco and for trendy and eclectic venues check out Roma.

If you're looking for night time activities Mazatlan has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of bars and clubs around town, particularly along the beach. Like anywhere else, remember to stay cautious late at night around town. This is considered to be one of the less safe parts of Mexico.

Is Mexico City or Mazatlan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Mexico City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Mazatlan has a few good snorkeling spots. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

Mexico City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mexico City or Mazatlan Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Mexico City is not a beach destination.

Mazatlan is considered a top beach destination. There are many stretches of beach around town. Most notable is the 13 miles that run along Malecon where there's a boardwalk. Surfing is also popular in the area.

Mexico City is not a beach destination.

Is Mexico City or Mazatlan Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Mazatlan. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Many visitors go to Mexico City to see the historical old town. Centro Historico spreads out from Zócalo Plaza, and has many buildings that date back as far as the Aztec period. Many tourists gather here to explore the history and wander down the pedestrian-only Calle Madero.

Is the Shopping Better in Mexico City or Mazatlan?

Mexico City is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Mexico City make it a world-class shopping destination. The city has everything from open-air bazaars (tianguis) to modern shopping malls. There are international brands as well as local art galleries, handicrafts, and retail outlets.

Mazatlan has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are local shops, big box stores, and souvenir vendors where you can pick up anything you may need or items to commemorate your trip.

Is Mexico City or Mazatlan Better for Families?

Mexico City is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Mexico City is a very kid-friendly city. It's a huge city, so there are enough diverse activities to keep everyone entertained. There's even a Six Flags. Popular museums for kids include Papalote Museo del Niño and Museo de Geología. There's also the Acuario Inbursa, and make sure you check out a Lucha Libre show.

Mazatlan offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the all-inclusive resorts and the waterfront setting. There are also many cultural opportunities such as markets, history, and shows. The food is very kid-friendly as well.

Is Mexico City or Mazatlan Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Mexico City and Mazatlan make for a good place to visit.

Mexico City is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with parks where you can enjoy a picnic, museums that are fascinating to walk through, and cultural activities that are one-of-a-kind. You can ride on a gondola in Xochimilco or spend the day exploring the amazing food scene.

Mazatlan is a nice destination for couples. The resorts are romantic and the beaches are stunning. If you're looking for an idyllic escape that also has culture, authenticity, and great food, then this is your spot.

Is Mexico City or Mazatlan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mexico City and Mazatlan are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Mexico City. It's a big city with a wonderful atmosphere and many hostels. Backpackers who want to experience the culture, food, and personality of Mexico will love a visit here.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Mazatlan. The laid back atmosphere makes this a great stopover for backpackers who want to experience the Mexican culture. Stick to the touristy areas if possible.

Is Mexico City or Mazatlan Better for Students?

Mexico City is well known for students. However, Mazatlan is not popular with students.

Mexico City is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students love the art, architecture, food, and culture that this colorful city has to offer.

Mazatlan is not popular with students.

Is Mexico City or Mazatlan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mexico City is well known for its public transit. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Mexico City has some very good public transit options. The city has a complex and comprehensive public transit system that includes a metro, metrobus, and local buses.

While Mazatlan offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses around town.

Is Mexico City or Mazatlan a more walkable city?

Mazatlan is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Mexico City is lacking in options for its walkability.

Mazatlan is a very walkable destination. The city is relatively walkable.

Mexico City is generally not very walkable. While you can walk within many neighborhoods, such as the historic city center, it's impossible to walk between neighborhoods and in many parts of the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Mexico City Worth Visiting? and Is Mazatlan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mazatlan or Mexico City?

How long in Mexico City or Mazatlan?

In either Mexico City or Mazatlan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Mexico City has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Mexico City than Mazatlan. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Mexico City than Mazatlan. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Mexico City, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Mexico City than Mazatlan. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Mexico City that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mexico City than Mazatlan if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Mexico City.

One day in Mexico City or Mazatlan?

Mexico City is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the historical city of Mazatlan. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Mexico City or Mazatlan?

Mexico City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Mazatlan. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Mexico City or Mazatlan?

Mexico City is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mexico City, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the historical city of Mazatlan. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Mexico City or Mazatlan?

Mexico City is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Mazatlan. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Luxury Tours to Mexico, and The Best Budget Tours to Mexico.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mexico City and Mazatlan, we can see that Mexico City is more expensive. And not only is Mazatlan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mazatlan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mazatlan and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Mexico City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mexico City than you might in Mazatlan.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Mexico City Expensive? and Is Mazatlan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Mexico City or Mazatlan?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Mazatlan. When comparing the sizes of Mexico City and Mazatlan, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.